The new-for-2013 Veloster Turbo adds some much-needed horsepower to the flashy-but-slow base Veloster, Hyundai’s genre-bending compact hatchback that debuted for 2012. As is customary for performance variants of regular-line vehicles, the Veloster Turbo gets a few exclusive appearance features that give it a racier look than its naturally aspirated sibling. Up front is a unique fascia with a larger grille and round fog lights, along with standard projector-beam headlights with LED accents. The rocker panels sport “ground effects” side sills, and the Turbo-exclusive rearview mirrors have integral LED turn-signal indicators. A roof-mounted body-color spoiler, LED taillights, and unique rear fascia with a diffuser and oversize exhaust tips bring up the rear.

However, the Veloster Turbo’s most unusual appearance feature might be its flat-finish paint option. Matte finishes have been trendy on custom cars and the one-off show vehicles at the SEMA aftermarket industry show for the past few years, and luxury brands such as BMW and Mercedes-Benz have recently offered low-gloss “satin” finishes as part of expensive option groups or on pricey limited-edition models. Smart also offered a matte green finish on its tiny, low-volume ForTwo for 2011, but Hyundai is the first mainstream automaker to dip a toe in the flat-paint pool.

The Matte Gray paint is a $1,000 Turbo-exclusive option intended for enthusiasts only, since the finish demands careful cleaning and maintenance well beyond what a normal glossy paint job requires. (The steep price tag, mainly due to the extra manufacturing processes required, will also likely limit sales). Hyundai throws in a Matte Finish Paint Owner’s Guide with detailed instructions on the proper care and maintenance of the special paint, along with a Dr. Beasley’s-brand car-wash kit that includes multi-step cleansers and wash mitts. Buyers are required to sign a release form indicating that they understand the finish’s relatively fragile nature and the fastidious upkeep required.